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Apr 6 HASSELL designs a ‘boulevard in the sky’ for Shenzhen

Adelaide based architecture practice HASSELL has unveiled its competition-winning masterplan for the new Qianhai business district in Shenzhen which will transform the area into an ‘essential urban destination’.

The plan for Shenzhen, a key ‘gateway’ city in China, looks to harness the ethos of the fast changing area by engaging young and active local people, which HASSELL hopes will encourage healthy living and improved social mobility for residents.

Pivotal to the design of the Qianhai Mawan Mile is a 1.6km-long skydeck or ‘boulevard in the sky’ which will sit above the base level of the city, with a striking orange design. The twisting skydeck will provide an important connection to local districts and buildings and will be well-appointed for cycling and jogging and other exercises.

As well as the central over ground path the ‘multi-layered project’ will have three other layers including lower level neighbourhood precincts, parks and pavilion buildings. HASSELL will also incorporate peaceful gardens which are designed to give residents a place to quietly enjoy their thoughts and surroundings, play areas, dedicated workout spaces, cafes and open squares which can be used for public events.

HASSELL describe the masterplan as a ‘vibrant mix of art and entertainment’ and say: “A major entertainment precinct located below ground connects to multiple metro concourses, and sunken plazas feature semi-outdoor dining areas and market places.”

“At the southern end of the development there’s a new cultural district punctuated by three pavilion buildings. Each responds to its unique site and purpose while still expressing a common architectural language that’s in sync with this distinctive, fully integrated urban destination.”

It is hoped that the spaces provided will encourage socialisation among beautiful green spaces that will bring a new dynamic to urban city living.

The ambitious masterplan is just one in a series of plans from architects across the globe looking to revitalise our urban areas, enhancing culture, retail, and entertainment with a particular focus on promoting healthy lifestyles as more and more people opt for city centre living.